After months of nerve-wracking suspense for the rest of the state’s political parties, Chiranjeeevi finally announced his political intentions. Yesterday (August 17th), Chiranjeevi met the press in his newly-opened party office and formally announced his foray into the political world in Jubilee Hills at 2.30 p.m. In a move that will surely change the geography of Andhra Pradesh politics, he said he is dedicating his life to serve the people through the medium of politics.
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He said that everything would be explained at the very first party meeting which will take place at Tirupati on August 26, the birthday of Mother Teresa. The name of the party, political ideology and agenda would be announced from the traditional arena of Tirupati.
He said that certain decisions on delicate issues could not be taken individually. He also made it very clear that decisions would be taken collectively by the party, because even within his party a democratic system would exist.
Chiranjeevi expressed the wish that he wanted to see Andhra Pradesh as 'Santosh Andhra Pradesh' or 'Chirunavvula Andhra Pradesh'.
When asked about his rivals in politics, he naturally said, “I have no rivalry with any one because I get inspiration from everyone. Moreover, I am a novice to politics and have no enmity with any party so far.”
When asked what kind of support he was expecting from the industry, Chiranjeevi said, “I have been in the film industry for almost 30 years. All those who know me will definitely support me." When asked whether artistes are joining other parties, he said, “Each one has his own interest and we can't blame anyone.” Chiranjeevi also announced that there would be adequate representation of women in the party, as he got support from women during his film career.
On being questioned who his political mentor would be, Chiranjeevi replied, “I learnt from everyone. I am a student forever. It is the people who taught me everything. They are my mentors.” On the occasion, Chiranjeevi thanked thespian, the late N.T. Rama Rao, who showed him the way by joining politics after a long career in films.
On being questioned about his survival as he is a novice to politics, Chiranjeevi replied, “People always welcome freshness. When I joined the film industry, there were several heroes and artistes. If I had been afraid to join the film industry, I would not be in this position now. People also welcomed me and took me into their heart, as they noticed some freshness in my dances, fights etc.”
About his quitting the film industry, Chiranjeevi evaded a direct answer. However, he made it clear that he doesn't want to put his fingers into many pies simultaneously. At the same time, he declared that he is ready to act in a film if he felt that he could convey a message that would serve society. He declared that he will always be an artiste. “So far, I have acted out different characters. But the people drove me to do another character in real life. I should invariably live in the character to render justice to society.”
His fans gathered in large numbers outside the party office and cheered their leader. At times, the noise of the crackers and the celebrations became so disturbing that Chiranjeevi could not hear many important questions posed by the journalists.
